Classic Inca Trail Trek 4D/3N to Machu Picchu (Group Service)
5
Classic Inca Trail Trek 4D/3N to Machu Picchu (Group Service)
By Alpaca Expeditions
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About
Travel confidently with Alpaca Expeditions, Peru's #1 Tour Operator!.
3 Guarantees for Your Inca Trail Adventure: Safety, Quality, and Expert Guidance
1. Security Guarantee
We ensure the safety of our guests throughout the entire Inca Trail. There will always be at least one guide behind the group, providing extra support and ensuring no one is left behind.
2. Food Guarantee
We guarantee quality food on all our expeditions by following five essential food safety rules:
✅ Keep everything clean.
✅ Separate raw and cooked foods.
✅ Cook thoroughly.
✅ Keep food at safe temperatures.
✅ Use safe water and raw materials. If we ever make a mistake, resulting in food-related issues (e.g., food poisoning), affected people will be completely compensated.
3. Lecture Guarantee
All our guides are educated to provide high quality content about the Inca history. After the trek, all lecture materials will be sent to your email in written form for you to review and enjoy at your leisure.
Lowest price guarantee
Ages 5-75, max of 14 per group
Duration: 4 days
Start time: Check availability
Mobile ticket
Live guide: English, Spanish
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Travellers’ Choice Best of the Best
2024
- Dinner
- Lunch
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Lunch
- Breakfast
- Dinner
- Breakfast
- Dinner
- Breakfast
- Briefing session the night before of the the tour at 6pm in our office
- Camping in 4-man Eureka tents only used for 2 people
- Personal porter up to 7k per person
- Expeditions tourist Class Train to return on the last day
- Portable chemical toilet only for our groups
- First aid kit, oxygen tank and Satellite phone -safety first
- Drinkable water along the trek
- Entry/Admission - Inca Trail
- Entry/Admission - Inca Trail
- Entry/Admission - Inca Trail
What's not included- Sleeping bag , trekking poles, air matts (available for rent)
- Tips for the crew (optional)
- Travel insurance
- Start:Multiple pickup locations offered.Pickup details
- We'll pick you up from your hotel.
Hotel pickup offeredDuring checkout you will be able to select from the list of included hotels.End:This activity ends back at the meeting point. - Not wheelchair accessible
If you have questions about accessibility, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 330995P1- Confirmation will be received at time of booking
- Not recommended for travellers with back problems
- Not recommended for pregnant travellers
- No heart problems or other serious medical conditions
- Travellers should have a moderate physical fitness level
- No heart problems or other serious medical conditions
- Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level
- A minimum of 2 people per booking is required
- This experience requires good weather. If it’s cancelled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
- This experience requires a minimum number of travellers. If it’s cancelled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 14 travellers
- All sales are final and incur 100% cancellation penalties.
- If you have questions about this tour or need help making your booking, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 330995P1
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AU$1,289.40
per adult
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About the operator
Don’t take it from us – here’s what people have to say about this operator:
- S1711PFlaurab0 contributionsSacred Valley Rainbow Mountain tours with RubenWe took a day tour of the Sacred Valley before our 4 day trek, and a day tour of Rainbow Mountain the day after our trek. Ruben was our guide both times. Not only are these locations both absolutely worth going to, but the passion and energy Ruben has is contagious, making the tours exceptional.Written 4 February 2025
- 910lawrencev0 contributionsAn Unforgettable Inca Trail Adventure!I had an amazing experience on the Camino Inca Corto to Machu Picchu! The 2-day, 1-night trek was perfectly organized, offering a mix of breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and a real sense of adventure. The guides were knowledgeable and friendly, making the journey even more enjoyable. Reaching Machu Picchu after this incredible hike was truly magical. Highly recommend this experience for anyone looking to explore the beauty and culture of Peru!Written 3 February 2025
- Passport418077108680 contributionsYour search is over!Your search is over. Stop looking and book with Alpaca. Abel and Ismael were just amazing. The food was incredible. Just unforgettable!Written 3 February 2025
- phillipkA2108YY0 contributionsLares/Inka Trail/Machu PicchuWe had a wonderful trek with Alpaca. We did the Lares3D/Inka2D with Machu Picchu. Our family with children ages 20, 18, 13 traveled to Peru over New Year's 2025. Alpaca was excellent to work with in every step from planning through the trek. We had the best guide, Max. He felt like a part of our family for the week we shared. Max did so much to enrich our journey. He was knowledgeable, caring, safety conscious, and so much fun! The Alpaca staff had delicious food prepared for every meal. The Chef Sebastian was an excellent cook. The food was plentiful and good. The support staff had our tents and sleeping bags ready at every stop. Lares was a moderately strenuous hike over 3 days with maximum elevation 15,500 feet. We camped out at 13,000 feet for 2 nights in tents. The day on the Inca Trail was nice and the entrance through the Sun Gate might have been spectacular, but upon our arrival it was fogged in. We hiked 500 feet down the hill and suddenly we could see Machu Picchu. I highly recommend trekking with Alpaca.Written 1 February 2025
- N5424RImaggiem0 contributions5/5 Experience, Definitely Recommend!My friend and I did the Huchuy Qosqo trek with our wonderful guide, Santiago. We hike for fun at home but rarely do overnight hikes so the 3D/2N with the first night camping and second night hotel was perfect. The team of porters and chefs were incredible, delicious food and so kind to us. Santiago is so knowledgeable about the history of Machu Picchu and Peru as a whole, we learned so much from him. He also helped us along the trail with breaks for coca to compact any altitude sickness. This trek was so stunning and quiet, we saw no other tourists until we reached the sacred valley. Definitely recommend to anyone looking to see more of the highlands before heading to Machu Picchu!Written 31 January 2025
- meganmH3047CE0 contributionsHuchuy Qosqo TrekWe actually did the Huchuy Qosqo trek, 3 days and 2 nights starting in Cusco and ending at Machu Picchu. This trip was amazing! I would highly recommend! The views were unbelievable, the hiking was a lot of fun, and we had great company. Our tour guide, Santiago, was so knowledgeable, kind, and fun! The food and accommodations were also amazing, some of the best meals I’ve ever had! Many thanks again to Santi as well as the cooks, horsemen, and everyone at Alpaca Expeditions. Thank you for this once in a lifetime experience that I will always treasure!Written 31 January 2025
- M8024VRmaxs0 contributionsAmazing Experience in the AndesThe hike was incredible and we did not have problems with the altitude at all. Our Guide Manuel was so kind, je explained a lot and we could take all the time we needed to hike. The view in the Andes was stunning. We also met a lot of alpacas and lamas . The food at the campsites was really great.Written 31 January 2025
- I9242SZgeorgef0 contributionsMachu Pichu AdventureGreat experience, hike was difficult with the elevation but tour guide was patient and supportive. Tour was also very informative about Incan and Peruvian history.Written 30 January 2025
- fionnualaob0 contributionsTrip of a lifetime!We had a fabulous experience with Alpaca Expeditions, Sabino was a fantastic tour guide, a fountain of knowledge and very helpful. He led the group at a pace comfortable for everyone. We also had delicious home cooked food prepared by our great chef. Gorgeous views at the top on the end of the first day, slept comfortably in our camp and explored Machu Picchu with a brilliant tour lead by Sabino the next day. Would definitely recommend!Written 30 January 2025
- francoisdI9205AS0 contributionsIncredible hike for all experience levels with great views andThis was an incredible trip! I cannot recommend this enough. Sabi was very friendly, helpful, and knowledgeable. He took time to explain things along our route and answer any of our questions. Although I may not have had the same hiking experience and pace as the group, we would always eventually reconvene and wait for me. Casillas the chef made us amazing food every day. All the ingredients are fresh and healthy and the food is made love. The camping accomodation was ready for us when we arrived, we felt safe, we also had LTE reception and had places to charge our devices.Written 29 January 2025
- I3704CPmathieul0 contributionsShort Inca Trail 2D/1N Trek with Alpaca ExpeditionsSabino was a great guide! Made our trek, one to remember! Takes the time to answer any questions you may have and is great at explaining the history behind the Machu Picchu. Breakfasts and Dinner were also great, thanks to the chef Casillia! Extremely well organized and an amazing experience, would recommend Alpaca Expeditions to everyone who is looking to have a guided tour in Peru!Written 29 January 2025
- 744marcantoinem0 contributionsWonderful two day hike with Sabino.Sabino was a great guide, answering any questions and providing insightful comments and stories throughout the trip. Casillia our chef did a great job, all the meals were tasty and we had plenty of food.Written 29 January 2025
- W9062EZalexj0 contributionsGreat tourGreat views (despite the wet-season rain), great food (thanks to Casilla), and Sabi was a great guide. Would recommend, but don't forget a poncho.Written 29 January 2025
- 583emmal0 contributionsBucket list item full filledFantastic hike, fantastic guide - Lucio Vargas, so knowledgeable about Inka culture and history. Beautiful lunch was prepared and served on hiking day. Nice hotel in Machu Picchu town , dinner included. Transportation arrangements were very smooth. A great experience all around. Definitely recommend.Written 28 January 2025
- bram29120 contributionsSacred Valley & 2 Day Inca Hike with Hotel (January 25) - Life Changing!I recently finished the Sacred Valley with Sail and the 2 day Inca trail hike with Ronaldino and both were incredible. Both guides went above and beyond and taught us so much about the region. The hike was very challenging but Ronaldino made sure that we went at our own pace, encouraging us every step of the way. It was a truly life changing experience and I cannot recommend it enough. You will see amazing sights, meet wonderful people, and have fantastic food. Thank you again Ronaldino for showing us your country and being so passionate about the Incan culture. You are welcome in DC anytime amigo. See you all again!Written 27 January 2025
These reviews are the subjective opinions of Tripadvisor members and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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G Lacey
7 contributions
Nov 2024 • Couples
Most importantly, the food with this group was really great and for that reason alone Id go with them again. Alvin and Puma were very knowledgeable and helpful through out the tour. You arrive at each stop to fresh food and pitched tents so it's really a nice experience. Can't fault the group on any point. It's locally owned and operated, they also told us about some of the social work they take part in.
Going late November meant a lot of rain. Great that no one could tell how sweaty I really was and the rain had a cooling effect. Not so great when you have to sit around for a while and your teeth begin chattering. Wear the poncho they give you with your rain gear even if it's a light drizzle, after a while even the best rain gear falls to Peruvian rains. We missed views at Dead Woman's Pass and Sun Gate due to weather but you do get all the incan sites on the trail nearly to yourself due to the off season.
Be wary that they charge an extra 5% to pay the balance by card when you arrive. The alternative is to run around Cusco hitting the limit on a bunch of ATMs and hoping that the exchange and ATM fees will be less than 5%. They do mention a bank that allows USD withdrawals in an email but when you see the reviews of the bank, it's clear they're actually converting on the backend and resulting in a much more expensive process.
If you've been looking at different providers, you'll see they all have a mention that tipping is customary on the Inca trail. Here the expected tips are 50 USD per guide, 100 soles per porter, and 12.5 soles per chef as mentioned in the briefing. So get cash totaling 100USD, 250 soles + some soles for the last lunch before going.
Going late November meant a lot of rain. Great that no one could tell how sweaty I really was and the rain had a cooling effect. Not so great when you have to sit around for a while and your teeth begin chattering. Wear the poncho they give you with your rain gear even if it's a light drizzle, after a while even the best rain gear falls to Peruvian rains. We missed views at Dead Woman's Pass and Sun Gate due to weather but you do get all the incan sites on the trail nearly to yourself due to the off season.
Be wary that they charge an extra 5% to pay the balance by card when you arrive. The alternative is to run around Cusco hitting the limit on a bunch of ATMs and hoping that the exchange and ATM fees will be less than 5%. They do mention a bank that allows USD withdrawals in an email but when you see the reviews of the bank, it's clear they're actually converting on the backend and resulting in a much more expensive process.
If you've been looking at different providers, you'll see they all have a mention that tipping is customary on the Inca trail. Here the expected tips are 50 USD per guide, 100 soles per porter, and 12.5 soles per chef as mentioned in the briefing. So get cash totaling 100USD, 250 soles + some soles for the last lunch before going.
Written 25 November 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Inspire66060753935
2 contributions
Jan 2025 • Solo
This hike was one of the most incredible experience of my life. Our tour guide Romario was really great. You could really see his passion when explaining the history behind the archeological sites and the quechua culture. He and our other tour guide Ethel made a great team, always looking out for us during the hike and offering their help if needed.
The porters with head porter valentin also did an incredible job. The were always very friendly and cheering you on. The hike was quite difficult for me other than the hiking it almost felt like a luxury trip. Our cook Alex surprised us on the second day by roasting marshmallows and on the last day he baked a cake for us. All of this with nothing more than a gas cooker! If you are planing to do the inka trail, I would highly recommend doing it with alpaca expeditions, definitely worth every penny!
The porters with head porter valentin also did an incredible job. The were always very friendly and cheering you on. The hike was quite difficult for me other than the hiking it almost felt like a luxury trip. Our cook Alex surprised us on the second day by roasting marshmallows and on the last day he baked a cake for us. All of this with nothing more than a gas cooker! If you are planing to do the inka trail, I would highly recommend doing it with alpaca expeditions, definitely worth every penny!
Written 27 January 2025
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Paul S
1 contribution
Nov 2024 • Family
If you’re reading this and thinking about tackling the Inca Trail, do yourself a favor: book it with Alpaca Expeditions, bring comfy shoes, and prepare to eat like a king while hiking like a llama. Seriously.
The 4-day, 3-night trek was a mind-blowing blend of breathtaking views, historical wonder, and – thanks to the incredible guides and porters of Alpaca – unforgettable moments of hilarity. I’m not saying our guide could have a career as a stand-up comedian, but I’d pay to see him roast tourists in a Cusco comedy club. He made each step feel less like “oh wow, another uphill” and more like “hey, what’s the next laugh or Incan trivia bomb?”
The real MVPs? The chefs. Imagine this: you’re in the middle of the Andes, your legs are jelly, and suddenly you’re served a multi-course meal that tastes like it was prepared by a Michelin-star chef with a secret teleportation device. Soup, mains, and even desserts that would make your grandmother weep with joy. You’d think we’d be eating dehydrated granola and rationing our Snickers bars – nope, Alpaca serves up three-square banquets a day. If they offered a cookbook, I’d buy it. Twice.
The porters – or as I like to call them, “Superheroes of the Trail” – were an inspiration. Carrying heavy packs, setting up camp like a pro Cirque du Soleil stage crew, and still smiling and cheering us on. Meanwhile, I was winded by my 500 ml water bottle. Alpaca Expeditions knows how to make you feel safe, supported, and incredibly humbled.
In short, this trip was not just about reaching Machu Picchu – it was about the incredible journey getting there, and Alpaca made every step of that journey a joy. I laughed, I sweated, I ate, and I marveled. If you’re on the fence about booking, stop thinking and just do it. You’ll come back with memories, new friends, and probably a new appreciation for quinoa soup.
10/10 – Would hike again, as long as Alpaca is leading the charge (and cooking the meals)!
The 4-day, 3-night trek was a mind-blowing blend of breathtaking views, historical wonder, and – thanks to the incredible guides and porters of Alpaca – unforgettable moments of hilarity. I’m not saying our guide could have a career as a stand-up comedian, but I’d pay to see him roast tourists in a Cusco comedy club. He made each step feel less like “oh wow, another uphill” and more like “hey, what’s the next laugh or Incan trivia bomb?”
The real MVPs? The chefs. Imagine this: you’re in the middle of the Andes, your legs are jelly, and suddenly you’re served a multi-course meal that tastes like it was prepared by a Michelin-star chef with a secret teleportation device. Soup, mains, and even desserts that would make your grandmother weep with joy. You’d think we’d be eating dehydrated granola and rationing our Snickers bars – nope, Alpaca serves up three-square banquets a day. If they offered a cookbook, I’d buy it. Twice.
The porters – or as I like to call them, “Superheroes of the Trail” – were an inspiration. Carrying heavy packs, setting up camp like a pro Cirque du Soleil stage crew, and still smiling and cheering us on. Meanwhile, I was winded by my 500 ml water bottle. Alpaca Expeditions knows how to make you feel safe, supported, and incredibly humbled.
In short, this trip was not just about reaching Machu Picchu – it was about the incredible journey getting there, and Alpaca made every step of that journey a joy. I laughed, I sweated, I ate, and I marveled. If you’re on the fence about booking, stop thinking and just do it. You’ll come back with memories, new friends, and probably a new appreciation for quinoa soup.
10/10 – Would hike again, as long as Alpaca is leading the charge (and cooking the meals)!
Written 15 November 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Allison K
1 contribution
Oct 2024 • Friends
I had a once in a lifetime experience with Alpaca Expeditions hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. The entire trek was stunning - hiking through the Andes and seeing the ancient ruins along the way. Our tour guides Juan Carlos Huillca and Valentine were very knowledgable and helpful in taking care of our group and explaining all the history of the sites we saw along the way (including the Machu Picchu site). The porter and chef team always made sure we were well fed and our accommodations were ready for us at each campsite when we arrived. It was clear that the Alpaca team was very thoughtful and organized in the way each phase of the 4 day trek was set up. Everyone in the group - the guides, the porters, and the other hikers - had a great energy and positive attitude which was essential to making the trek a really fun 4 days.
I highly recommend booking with Alpaca Expeditions (and supporting a local, Peruvian company) if you are considering hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu!
**Please PLEASE be aware though that this hike can be very physically strenuous and making the appropriate preparations and precautions is an absolute must. I would hate for you to get hurt/ill and affect the experience for yourself, your group, and the Alpaca team**
I highly recommend booking with Alpaca Expeditions (and supporting a local, Peruvian company) if you are considering hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu!
**Please PLEASE be aware though that this hike can be very physically strenuous and making the appropriate preparations and precautions is an absolute must. I would hate for you to get hurt/ill and affect the experience for yourself, your group, and the Alpaca team**
Written 6 November 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Suzanne B
1 contribution
June 2024 • Friends
This tour was absolutely unforgettable, extremely fun, and incredibly well organized from the first email to the very last hotel dropoff. The 4-day route was absolutely perfect for my avid hiker friend and me – challenging hiking but with a perfect number of fascinating and impressive stops for Inca ruins and nature. Ultimately, Alpaca planned so well that we were the first group through the Sun Gate on the day of our arrival at Machu Picchu, and watching the sun rise over the site with my group was a special experience I’ll never forget.
Alpaca staff were responsive and reading materials were very helpful in the months leading up to the trip.
As soon as we met our primary tour guide Juan Carlos Zuloaga, at our briefing, I felt his warmth, confidence and silliness would make for a great trip, and I was right. He led us with deep personal and professional knowledge of the Inca Trail, and he made sure instructions were clear and morale was high, especially on the physically challenging days. He had a great sense of humor and made our group feel like a family. Our other guide Valentín was equally strong in his leadership – he was professional, funny, and smart in all his interactions with the group. Both guides managed our group’s questions and concerns with grace and clarity. They also facilitated fun reflection questions at happy hour (ie highlight of your day) that brought us closer together.
Our chef Santos made THEE best meals for us (sometimes so good that we needed a siesta in between hike legs), including great options for vegetarians, and a variety of dishes each meal that appealed to people from the many countries represented on our trip.
Ciriaco was our chief porter and did an amazing job with the details, from making sure each rented mattress was set up and inflated in the correct tent to keeping track of the huge number of duffels and tent equipment. Our guides also made sure we each were introduced to all porters and could have friendly relationships with them, which I felt was important.
I’d recommend Alpaca to anyone working in their Cusco and Machu Picchu itinerary!
Alpaca staff were responsive and reading materials were very helpful in the months leading up to the trip.
As soon as we met our primary tour guide Juan Carlos Zuloaga, at our briefing, I felt his warmth, confidence and silliness would make for a great trip, and I was right. He led us with deep personal and professional knowledge of the Inca Trail, and he made sure instructions were clear and morale was high, especially on the physically challenging days. He had a great sense of humor and made our group feel like a family. Our other guide Valentín was equally strong in his leadership – he was professional, funny, and smart in all his interactions with the group. Both guides managed our group’s questions and concerns with grace and clarity. They also facilitated fun reflection questions at happy hour (ie highlight of your day) that brought us closer together.
Our chef Santos made THEE best meals for us (sometimes so good that we needed a siesta in between hike legs), including great options for vegetarians, and a variety of dishes each meal that appealed to people from the many countries represented on our trip.
Ciriaco was our chief porter and did an amazing job with the details, from making sure each rented mattress was set up and inflated in the correct tent to keeping track of the huge number of duffels and tent equipment. Our guides also made sure we each were introduced to all porters and could have friendly relationships with them, which I felt was important.
I’d recommend Alpaca to anyone working in their Cusco and Machu Picchu itinerary!
Written 5 June 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Ryan
2 contributions
Dec 2024 • Couples
My partner and I went on the 7d/6n salkantay trek + Inca trail tour and had an incredible experience. Our guide, Hono, made the trip what it was. He had great insight into the history and culture of the Andean people, and was a fun and supportive person to be around for such a long journey. He walked us through every step of the trek from beginning to end and made us feel comfortable and taken care of. The accommodations along the trail went above and beyond our every expectation, from food to sleeping arrangements. We were unsure about whether or not the 7 day tour including the salkantay trek would be worth it beyond the original 4d Inca trail, and it is absolutely worth it. The first 3 days through the humantay/salkantay mountains were some of the best parts of the trip and I would recommend taking the 7d trip to anyone considering it! Moreover, the alpaca expeditions company goes above and beyond not only providing high quality experiences, but also taking social responsibility seriously. I would not consider booking with anyone other than alpaca expeditions!
Written 21 December 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Many thanks for your kind words! We are truly glad to know that your experience on the Salkantay trek and Inca Trail was so positive and that our team, in general, did their best to provide a memorable experience that met your expectations. We deeply appreciate that you chose to travel with us and that you highlighted our social responsibility and the quality of our work!
With gratitude, Alpaca Expeditions.
Written 23 December 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
rocketwoman21
San Jose, CA37 contributions
Oct 2024 • Couples
Alpaca Expeditions was outstanding in every way. We are two couples in our fifties and we wanted to hike the Inca Trail into Machu Picchu. We booked the luxury "glamping" 3 night/4 day trip and it was outstanding. Four guides (1 lead guide Alex and 3 "junior guides" Reynaldo, Ingrit and Jean-Carlo) took excellent care of us, ensuring we were safe, enjoyed the hike, and educated us about the Incas, the flora and fauna along the way. They were kind, fun and patient as we slowly made our way to Machu Picchu. Our porters are super human - carrying all our gear and ensuring that we had a wonderful camping experience every night, including our own "potty" and a warm shower. They were kind, strong, helpful and we are so appreciative of all they did to make our camping experience extra special. Walter, our chef was incredible. The meals he made for us were comparable to meals you'd find in top restaurants - delicious, beautifully presented and a nice variety. And Miriam, our amazing masseuse (yes, the luxury tour comes with a masseuse), gave incredible massages at the end of each hiking day comparable to the ones we get at our spas at home. Everyone was knowledgeable, helpful, fun, detail oriented, reassuring (I was nervous about keeping up and being able to do the hike), and overall outstanding. We can't say enough good things about our experience with Alpaca Expeditions and highly recommend them if you're planning to hike the Inca Trail! Thank you to all of them from the bottom of our hearts for the experience of a lifetime!
Written 8 November 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Rabab C
1 contribution
Nov 2024 • Couples
Hiking the Inka Trail was truly an unforgettable experience.
From the very start, our guide Juan Carlos (Huillca Sayritupa) and assistant guide Valentine impressed us with their knowledge of Incan history and culture along the trail. Every ruin we passed, every mountain we climbed, they enriched our experience with stories and insights.
The hike was challenging, pushing us physically and mentally every day, with the constant variation in the trail. We went from narrow, rocky paths to uneven stone steps, but Juan Carlos was always patient and motivating. He knew just when to push us forward and when we needed a break. His energy kept our spirits high and his funny spirit made our group feel like a family.
One of the highlights was the morning we reached the Sun Gate to watch the sunrise over Machupicchu, Juan Carlos’s timing was perfect (setting aside the 3am wake up time lol), ensuring we arrived at the perfect moment for a view we’ll never forget.
The porters on the Inka Trail deserve so much recognition. These men worked tirelessly behind the scenes to make our journey as smooth and comfortable as possible, carrying heavy loads and setting up camps ahead of us, so everything was ready when we arrived. Thanks to their hard work, we could focus on enjoying the trail without worrying about logistics.
Despite the weight they carried, the porters were always cheerful and friendly, greeting us with smiles each day.
The food on the Inka Trail was another highlight of the experience. Every day, we were treated to freshly prepared, delicious meals that went above and beyond …. They managed to create beautiful, multi-course meals. The variety and quality were truly impressive.
This whole experience, Juan Carlos’ guidance combined with the food, was truly humbling and inspiring …. An unforgettable experience. If you’re considering hiking the Inka Trail, I can’t recommend Juan Carlos enough—his knowledge, kindness, and enthusiasm made this journey absolutely magical - truly a journey that nourished both body and soul.
Rabab & Jeff
From the very start, our guide Juan Carlos (Huillca Sayritupa) and assistant guide Valentine impressed us with their knowledge of Incan history and culture along the trail. Every ruin we passed, every mountain we climbed, they enriched our experience with stories and insights.
The hike was challenging, pushing us physically and mentally every day, with the constant variation in the trail. We went from narrow, rocky paths to uneven stone steps, but Juan Carlos was always patient and motivating. He knew just when to push us forward and when we needed a break. His energy kept our spirits high and his funny spirit made our group feel like a family.
One of the highlights was the morning we reached the Sun Gate to watch the sunrise over Machupicchu, Juan Carlos’s timing was perfect (setting aside the 3am wake up time lol), ensuring we arrived at the perfect moment for a view we’ll never forget.
The porters on the Inka Trail deserve so much recognition. These men worked tirelessly behind the scenes to make our journey as smooth and comfortable as possible, carrying heavy loads and setting up camps ahead of us, so everything was ready when we arrived. Thanks to their hard work, we could focus on enjoying the trail without worrying about logistics.
Despite the weight they carried, the porters were always cheerful and friendly, greeting us with smiles each day.
The food on the Inka Trail was another highlight of the experience. Every day, we were treated to freshly prepared, delicious meals that went above and beyond …. They managed to create beautiful, multi-course meals. The variety and quality were truly impressive.
This whole experience, Juan Carlos’ guidance combined with the food, was truly humbling and inspiring …. An unforgettable experience. If you’re considering hiking the Inka Trail, I can’t recommend Juan Carlos enough—his knowledge, kindness, and enthusiasm made this journey absolutely magical - truly a journey that nourished both body and soul.
Rabab & Jeff
Written 3 November 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
davidtinney
London, UK174 contributions
June 2024 • Couples
I just completed the four day Inca trek, and if it were not for the efforts of the people we are about to mention this tour would have received one star. Our chief guide was Javier Aranzabal Alvarez and his assistant was Wilber Ocon. Both of these men possessed a forensic knowledge of of the Inca mountainside (we spoke to people on other tours and they had a similar experience of their guides) including the people, flora, fauna, and of course the Incas. They were totally in command and you felt you were in the hands of highly competent and helpful people. Likewise, the cooks made some amazing meals (no alcohol) that were mostly Peruvian but also western. They even baked us an amazing cake on the last night. The porters and their efficiency are incredible. And yes, coca tea delivered to your tent.
Positive regards cannot be shared with the Alpaca Expeditions company, however. First off, pease be aware that this is not a trek for beginners in spite of what is stated. It is hard work, sometimes hiking in the dark and up extremely rocky, vertical surfaces. You very much get the impression that this is assembly line tourism, with another group just behind you. I think the guides had radios, and ensured that groups were kept apart, but other than the breaks there is no time to stop and enjoy what is around you...you're just moving.
The start times on our group (and the others I spoke to) were earlier than stated on the website by about 30 minutes. By the end of the day people in our group were totally wiped out. On the last day we were awaken at 3am and waited for a freezing 90 minutes for the gates to open. After a 2 hour hike our Macchu Picchu tour started at around 8am. As you can imagine, after a 3 am wake up and starting to hike in the dark on the days before, people were exhausted and some were falling asleep during the tour talks. After what felt like less than 2 hours we were whisked off the site (you are not allowed to explore on your own), put on a bus and deposited in a restaurant with other people from Alpaca.
I think the positive reviews here are influenced by the wonderful porters, guides and cooks and not the trek itself. If you still choose to book, good luck. Please note that I am a real person who has written hundreds of reviews. I write this with a heavy heart as I don't want Javier and other to lose their jobs, but your safety and money are equally important.
Positive regards cannot be shared with the Alpaca Expeditions company, however. First off, pease be aware that this is not a trek for beginners in spite of what is stated. It is hard work, sometimes hiking in the dark and up extremely rocky, vertical surfaces. You very much get the impression that this is assembly line tourism, with another group just behind you. I think the guides had radios, and ensured that groups were kept apart, but other than the breaks there is no time to stop and enjoy what is around you...you're just moving.
The start times on our group (and the others I spoke to) were earlier than stated on the website by about 30 minutes. By the end of the day people in our group were totally wiped out. On the last day we were awaken at 3am and waited for a freezing 90 minutes for the gates to open. After a 2 hour hike our Macchu Picchu tour started at around 8am. As you can imagine, after a 3 am wake up and starting to hike in the dark on the days before, people were exhausted and some were falling asleep during the tour talks. After what felt like less than 2 hours we were whisked off the site (you are not allowed to explore on your own), put on a bus and deposited in a restaurant with other people from Alpaca.
I think the positive reviews here are influenced by the wonderful porters, guides and cooks and not the trek itself. If you still choose to book, good luck. Please note that I am a real person who has written hundreds of reviews. I write this with a heavy heart as I don't want Javier and other to lose their jobs, but your safety and money are equally important.
Written 3 June 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Serge P
1 contribution
Dec 2024 • Family
Our family’s experience with Alpaca Expeditions on the 4-day, 3-night Inca Trail trek to Machu Picchu was absolutely phenomenal! From start to finish, every detail was thoughtfully planned, and the level of service provided by our guides and the team far exceeded our expectations.
Our lead guide, Fletcher, and his assistant, Fernando, were simply outstanding. Fletcher’s deep knowledge of Inca history, local culture, and the trail itself added so much depth to the journey. He was not only incredibly informative but also attentive to the varying paces within our group. Our twin daughters, both 20 years old and very athletic, were often at the front of the pack, and Fletcher and Fernando made sure they were always engaged, challenged, and safe while sharing fascinating insights along the way.
The porters and chefs deserve a standing ovation. Every meal was a gourmet masterpiece, and it was hard to believe they could create such incredible dishes in the middle of the mountains. From the thoughtful morning wake-up calls with tea and coffee to the beautifully presented dinners, the care and effort the team put into everything were extraordinary.
The trail itself was breathtaking, and Fletcher ensured we paused at just the right moments to soak in the stunning vistas and hear the stories behind the ruins. His passion for the history of the Incas and the land shone through in every explanation. When we finally reached the Sun Gate and saw Machu Picchu, it was an emotional and unforgettable moment—made even more special by the camaraderie we felt with the entire Alpaca Expeditions team.
This trek was challenging but rewarding, and the professionalism, support, and positive energy from Fletcher, Fernando, and the entire crew made it an adventure of a lifetime. Alpaca Expeditions is truly a first-class operation, and we highly recommend them to anyone considering the Inca Trail.
Thank you, Fletcher, Fernando, and the entire team for creating memories we will treasure forever!
Tupananchiskama!
Our lead guide, Fletcher, and his assistant, Fernando, were simply outstanding. Fletcher’s deep knowledge of Inca history, local culture, and the trail itself added so much depth to the journey. He was not only incredibly informative but also attentive to the varying paces within our group. Our twin daughters, both 20 years old and very athletic, were often at the front of the pack, and Fletcher and Fernando made sure they were always engaged, challenged, and safe while sharing fascinating insights along the way.
The porters and chefs deserve a standing ovation. Every meal was a gourmet masterpiece, and it was hard to believe they could create such incredible dishes in the middle of the mountains. From the thoughtful morning wake-up calls with tea and coffee to the beautifully presented dinners, the care and effort the team put into everything were extraordinary.
The trail itself was breathtaking, and Fletcher ensured we paused at just the right moments to soak in the stunning vistas and hear the stories behind the ruins. His passion for the history of the Incas and the land shone through in every explanation. When we finally reached the Sun Gate and saw Machu Picchu, it was an emotional and unforgettable moment—made even more special by the camaraderie we felt with the entire Alpaca Expeditions team.
This trek was challenging but rewarding, and the professionalism, support, and positive energy from Fletcher, Fernando, and the entire crew made it an adventure of a lifetime. Alpaca Expeditions is truly a first-class operation, and we highly recommend them to anyone considering the Inca Trail.
Thank you, Fletcher, Fernando, and the entire team for creating memories we will treasure forever!
Tupananchiskama!
Written 23 December 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you very much for your kind words! We are very happy to know that your experience with Alpaca Expeditions was so positive. We are delighted that Fletcher, Fernando, and the entire team were able to make your adventure memorable and special. We truly appreciate that you highlighted the dedication and effort we put into every detail, from the meals to the explanations during the trek. Thank you for recommending us and for trusting us with such an incredible adventure.... forever Alpaca Expeditions.
Written 24 December 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Is there a place where I can charge my phone while trekking?
Written 19 December 2023
No. The best solution is to have a power bank. Some had a device that could give three charges.
Written 21 December 2023
I went myself and joined a group. The group has solo travelers, couples and families. We ended up having a great time. One thing to note is that they might charge an extra fee for solo tent. Or they might be able to put you with another solo traveler.
Written 20 November 2023
kltemple
Dallas, Texas
does it include going up to Machu Pichu? or do you have to buy extra tour or tickets to get entrance into MP?
Written 21 June 2023
Hi, can I join only day1? I'd like to camp, staying the night with the group, and come back by myself.
Written 13 November 2022
No! Is the short answer- no company would take someone out for one day/night and then leave them on there own. If you treck with a company they are obliged morally and legally to ensure your safety.
There are paths of the inca trail all around cusco go on an organised tour from there for the day without camping.
Written 14 November 2022
Hi how much are sleeping bags and air mats to hire please? Thanks
Written 22 October 2022
Really not that expensive. I think it’s around $25 total to rent both of them. The price is on their website.
Written 23 October 2022
Please could you tell me when the dates are released for next year by the trail. We need to know how far in advance we should be by. Thank you
Written 5 October 2022
The government release dates for 2023 begins October 16, 2022. Contact Alpaca Expeditions for availability. Hope you have a great trip !!
Written 6 October 2022
How much does it cost to rent a sleeping bag, mattress and hiking poles? Can't find it anywhere.
Written 7 September 2022
Hi my husband and I are interested in doing this trip. Do we have to return to Cuzco at the end though? We are going to continue travelling around Peru after the tour so to return to the start point might not work for us. What would happen with our luggage would that come with us too? Thank you
Written 2 September 2022
We left our luggages at our hotel and we were driven back by Alpaca Expeditions to the same hotel after our 4d/3n Classic Inca Trail trek. The hotels are very accommodating in keeping the luggages for free. We got back late so I think it’s better for you to stay 1 more night in Cuzco to rest before moving on to other places in Peru.
Written 4 September 2022
Hi my husband and I are interested in doing this trip. Do we have to return to Cuzco at the end though? We are going to continue travelling around Peru after the tour so to return to the start point might not work for us. What would happen with our luggage would that come with us too? Thank you
Written 2 September 2022
My friend and I joined the Alpaca group in Ollantatambo. Upon our return we stayed another night in the same hotel. They held our luggage for us while on the trek. It worked perfectly and we didn’t have to get up as early as those starting in Cusco nor did we have a long bus ride after the hike. Ollantatambo is a lovely town. Highly recommend staying there.
Written 4 September 2022
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